CHARLESTON, S.C., Sept. 13 (UPI) -- Scientists in South Carolina have opened the rear hatch of the H.L. Hunley for the first time since the Confederate sub sank more than 142 years ago.
The Charleston (S.C.) Post and Courier says scientists are trying to determine why the Hunley disappeared on Feb. 17, 1864. That night, the Confederate submarine H.L. Hunley attacked and sank the Housatonic.
Scientists say it appears the hatch was latched as they expected. They were surprised, however, to see what appears to be a brass pressure valve in the hatch.
"This is pure speculation, but it may have been to relieve pressure in case of an emergency," said Maria Jacobsen, the project's senior archeologist told the Post Courier.
The newspaper said the hatch is bigger than original estimates. The oval-shaped conning tower is about 16.5 inches wide and nearly 21 inches long.
